Signs posted at local beaches help you to assess the risk each time you visit. They let you know about conditions that can increase the chance of getting sick when swimming, including:

Heavy rainfall or high winds in the past two days

Heavy rain and strong winds can quickly affect water quality. Rain can wash bacteria and other contaminants from surrounding land into the water, while wind can stir up the lake or river bottom and mix organisms into the water.

These changes can increase the chance of getting sick, especially within one to two days after the weather event.

Visible algae, pond scum, or murky water

Visible algae, surface scum, or cloudy water can be signs of poor water quality and increased health risk. Murky water can mean dirt and germs have been stirred up in the water.

Algae growth can be linked to bacteria in the water, and some types of algae can produce substances that make people sick.

Cloudy water can also make it harder to see hazards below the surface, increasing the risk of injury. 

We will continue to issue announcements when instances of Harmful Blue-green Algae Blooms at public beaches in our region are confirmed.

Large numbers of birds in the water

When many birds are swimming or resting near the water, organisms in their droppings can enter the water and increase the risk of stomach illness, skin irritation, or eye infections for swimmers.

The sign also reminds you how to reduce risk:

• Wash or sanitize hands before eating
• Towel off well to help prevent swimmer’s itch
• Check for physical hazards before entering the water
• Avoid getting beach water in your mouth

Questions or Concerns?

We updated our approach to beach water monitoring in 2026. See Beach Signage FAQs to learn more.

Contact us if you have concern about a public beach or would like more information.

environmental.health@healthunit.ca

705-474-1400 Ext. 5400